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Thứ Bảy, ngày 27 tháng 11 năm 2010

Flight attendant - Frequently Asked Questions

Flight attendant - Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to attend a school or complete an online program before I can apply?

No! The only schooling required for the flight attendant position is a high school diploma or equivalent. It is as simple as meeting the very basic requirements, applying and being well prepared for the interview, which is where my guide and preparation materials come in. Once you are selected, you will be trained by your airline in a 3-6 week specifically structured, FAA training program that is security sensitive and cannot be duplicated elsewhere.

There are "schools" and online sites that offer courses on becoming a flight attendant. There are even on line sites or week long schools that offer "certificates" for flight attendant hopefuls.Please do not fall victim to these scams.

These "programs" cannot offer guaranteed flight attendant employment with an airline, ( No one can!) and airlines do not recognize these programs. It is so important to remember that airlines do not give any preference to any applicant who has attended, or under gone any "program" prior to applying. In fact, airlines often feel that these applicants will have to be "re-trained" with the real training information, decreasing their chances.

Our guide and other preparation products are intended to educate you and prepare you shine in your airline interview at an affordable price and with 100% support after the sale.

How can I determine if I am right for the Flight Attendant Career, and get a head start on interviewing?

We offer our Flight Attendant Career Test FREE with purchase, over 50 airline qualifying, and interview questions, PLUS the required 24 hour clock, FREE! This is a tool this is utilized by nearly all airlines, and we pass on to you for FREE!

I want to be a flight attendant! Where do I start?

Getting started is as simple as meeting the basic requirements like minimum age, height, vision, citizenship and customer service experience.

After that, all you must do is prepare, my guide is the best, most trusted and recognized resource available, then select the airline(s) you are interested in, and apply!

Many airlines accept applications and resumes online, while others will require that you attend an open interview session in a scheduled location. All of that information is on this site at the hiring page.

Once you have interviewed and been selected, you will be trained by the airline in a specialized training program that is not available to anyone but selected applicants and cannot be obtained anywhere but the airline you are hired with. Once you successfully complete your airline's training program, you will graduate and begin your career!

What are the requirements to be a flight attendant?

This has been the question we receive more than any other. You should be able to meet the posted qualifications for the airline to which you apply. These usually include:

HEIGHT- Normally the minimum height is between 5'0-5'1 and the maximum ranges between 5'8-6'3. The height requirements are DIFFERENT at every airline. Many airlines do not even have height requirements, but instead require that you be able to reach to a certain height.

VISION: Correctable eyewear or contact are allowed to ensure you can meet the corrected vision requirements.

WEIGHT: There are NO weight standards at US airlines. You will only be visually assessed and the recruiter is looking for weight in proportion to height.

EDUCATION: Only a high school diploma (Or GED) is required. NO prior schooling or training is required. The airline that hires you will provide all of your training. Airline training material is highly specific and safety sensitive and cannot be purchased. You cannot receive your airline training from any place other than the airline, regardless of what you might see on the internet.

CUSTOMER SERVICE: Some airlines will require some customer service experience. This can be in any type of situation that brought you into contact with the public in some capacity. Usually, if you can demonstrate in your interview that you are aware of and can perform effective customer service, you are considered qualified.

TEN YEAR BACKGROUND CHECK: You must be able to pass a ten year background check and drug screening.

MEDICAL EVALUATION: Once selected you will undergo a physical to ensure you are in good health.

As you can see, compared with most careers, the basic requirements for the flight attendant position make it very attainable, and that is why there are so many applicants for every one flight attendant opening. My guide is intended to set you apart, prepare you and help get you the job.

How do I get started?

Applying to airlines has become more simplified than ever. Most will allow you to submit your application or resume directly online their company site, or interview instantly at an open session. Preparation is essential. My guide is the most trusted, recognized source on the flight attendant career. I encourage you to consider purchasing it as your preparation resource. Then visit my free hiring pageto see which airlines are hiring, and how to apply. You could change your life sooner than you think!

Why should I buy your Guide to get hired as a flight attendant?

My life changed dramatically after being hired at American Airlines. I never forgot what an extraordinary gift it was to fly around the world with really fun people and be exposed to so much opportunity, plus be paid! I decided early on in my career to try and help others do the same after realizing that so many people had huge misconceptions about how to get hired. I also know a flight attendant interview is unlike any other type of interview and the right preparation is essential in being selected. I also realized the airline industry was lacking a dependable, trustworthy resource guide for people who really wanted a chance at the career.

Since our inception in 1997, we have helped thousands leave a less than exciting work life for an "office with a view" and allowed others to simply fulfill a life long dream. I believe I offer the best resource available on getting hired as a flight attendant and I am confident enough to offer a money back guarantee, something no one else is able to do. My readers are success stories, and I look forward to assisting you!

I saw a site that offers a training program for flight attendants, do I need it?

No, again, the airline that hires you will provide all of your training, at no expense to you. Again, you do not need to invest a lot of money in a program or school that cannot offer you guaranteed employment with an airline, particularly since the airlines do not recognize them.

On the other hand, we are recognized by the people who do the hiring at airlines, and we are committed to offering our information at a price that is affordable.

Why do some sites charge for airline hiring information and you don't?

We are unsure as to why there are sites charging applicants for hiring information.There are some sites that actually copy our hiring information page and sell it.Please do not fall victim to these sites. We do not charge because it is not necessary to do so. Airlines worldwide send us updates daily concerning their hiring AND they rely on us to pass it on to our visitors because they know we are the number one airline hiring site in the world and they want to see our readers at their interviews!

What will the interview for the flight attendant position be like?

The Flight Attendant interview you will undergo will be much like other job interviews, in terms of your needing to be professionally dressed, personable and positive throughout the interview. However, there many more applicants competing for every one flight attendant job. This is why your preparation and my guide are crucial! Airlines can be highly selective with so many applicants! What sets an airline interview apart from other job interviews is that at your airline interview, you will be assessed in areas of appearance, customer service work history, your abilities to interact with others, your understanding of customer service, and your overall personality. We teach you to be the applicant that airlines look for.

You will usually participate in a group exercise, to let the airline see how you work with others on a task. You will always be asked questions, you will usually be asked to introduce yourself to the group, you may read a sample in-flight announcement aloud or be asked to take a test surveying your comprehension skills. You'll also receive an overview of the company and the career from a representative of the airline. Usually the interview will last at least several hours. The length is again, part of the process to see how you hold up all day, both in terms of personality and professionalism, just as you will need to as a working flight attendant.

What kinds of questions will they ask me at my interview?

Questions at the airline interview are the most important factor for the recruiters as it allows them to get a real glimpse of who you are, what you know about customer service, etc.. The primary focus of the questions will be to see how much you understand customer service. My guide has all of the current questions, over 90 of them, with answers. You need to be ready to give the recruiter the answer they are looking for, because there are right and wrong ways to answer these questions!!!

Some sample questions include:

Question: Why do you want to be a flight attendant?

Wrong answer: Because I would like the free travel and I like people.

Right answer: I would love to be a flight attendant for ____________ Airlines, because I have exceptional customer service skills and the ability to interact with people on a professional and personal level is one of my best assets. I know I would be an excellent representative of this airline.

Question: Finish this sentence: I don't like it when people...

Wrong answer: Annoy me.

Right Answer: Feel dissatisfied. I always go out of my way to make sure my customers are happy and are receiving superior customer service.

Question: You are working onboard the aircraft when you are approached by a passenger who tells you he/she cannot sit in the seat they are assigned because of the ethnicity of the other passenger. What do you do?

Wrong answer: Tell them we do not tolerate prejudice and they will have to take their assigned seat.

Right answer: I would be professional and discreet. I would maintain calmness in the cabin, and quickly reseat the passenger. If the aircraft were full, I would notify the agent and seek assistance in reseating the passenger.

I'm over 50, am I too old to be hired as a flight attendant?

No! You are never too old to begin a flying career. Airlines welcome all applicants and the vast and varied life experience they are able to bring to the job! There is no maximum age requirement in place at US airlines, so you are never too old to begin applying for a Flight Attendant position!

Am I too young to apply for a flight attendant job?

All airlines have a minimum age requirement, usually between the ages of 18 and 21 years old. The requirement depends on the airline. Once you meet the age requirement along with the other basic requirements, you can simply begin applying. Airlines seek applicants of all ages in order to ensure a diversified work force. I was hired at American Airlines at age 19, so I am proof that you can be hired at a young age.

I have seen other flight attendant websites almost identical to yours, what is that about?

We are real and we are the original! We realize that we are often copied online, but we have been the most trusted, successful flight attendant guide since 1997. We are committed to getting you hired at an airline by offering the very best information available and we really are the only guide that airline recruiters contribute to, although others may make the same claim. We are so sure that we offer a money back guarantee.

What are the Height and Weight requirements for Flight Attendants?

Many airlines have in place specific minimum and maximum height requirements, each airline will vary on these requirements. Airlines have become much more lenient on the height issue, most have lowered their minimum height and increased maximum height. Many airlines are simply requiring a reach height, or the height to which an applicant is able to reach in defined inches.

There are no specific weight requirements for Flight Attendant applicants. Applicants are simply required to have "weight in proportion to height." Which translated means, applicants can look like real people! Airlines are simply looking for people with personality and a good customer service work ethic, looks and body size have little do with the process. As long as you are well groomed and neat, you meet the requirements.

An open hiring sessions allows applicants in most cases to simply show up and be interviewed. The airlines that conduct these generally do not provide transportation to the site. It is an investment on the applicants part. There are many airlines that conduct only open session type interviews.

These open sessions are a great way to go and instantly interview without applying and waiting to be called and set up for an interview. At the open sessions, you will generally find out the same day if selected, or if selected to move on in the process.

Will I need a passport in order to begin applying?

Not every airline will require that you already have a passport when you apply, but some will. As soon as you are hired as a flight attendant, you will need a passport, and having a valid passport at your interview is a plus. Click hereto begin the passport application process or simply apply in person at your local post office.

I am not a US citizen, can I apply to a US based airline?

In order to apply to a US based airline, you must be legally able to work in the US and enter and exit the US without restriction. For information on obtaining a work visa click here

Do Flight Attendants and their families really get to fly for free?

Yes. Most travel costs the airline employee nothing. The incredible travel privileges normally extend to the Flight Attendant, spouse, dependent children, parents, life partners, and other extended family members. Many airlines now allow Flight Attendants to extend the travel privileges to unrelated friends, neighbors, etc.. Also, once you become a flight attendant you become eligible for interline travel. You, your family and friends will receive discounts of 25-90% on tickets on nearly every airline in the world, as well as cruise lines, resorts and hotels. It is truly the "hidden paycheck" in the airline business.

Do airlines look more favorably on single applicants as opposed to those with families?

No, airlines are interested in all applicants who are qualified for the job. Airlines also offer maternity leaves, educational leaves, family leave and part time programs, so you can tailor your flying schedule to fit your life.

Do airlines hire more women than men for the flight attendant position?

No, airlines welcome men and women and do not discriminate. It is simply a great career choice for anyone.

I wear contacts and sometimes glasses, will this disqualify me?

No. Many flight attendants wear contacts and glasses.

What kind of education do I need to apply for the Flight Attendant position?

All airlines require an applicant to be a high school graduate or the equivalent (GED).

I have a past arrest on my record will this disqualify me, and what about traffic violations?

No. We have many readers who have prior arrests or records and they have been successfully hired asflight attendants. At most airlines, an FBI fingerprint packet as well as a 10 year background check will be performed on every applicant who is considered for employment. In most cases, misdemeanor offenses or traffic violations will not disqualify you from consideration.

My credit history isn't the best, will this disqualify me?

No, your personal credit is normally not an issue

I have a conditional illness that I take medication for, can I still be a flight attendant?

Yes. Airlines will require each applicant who is selected to undergo a full physical. Airlines are generally quite fair and will decide eligibility on a case by case basis. Plus, most airlines allow direct input from your personal physician concerning prescription medication you may be taking.

There is a flight attendant seminar coming to my city. It is expensive, so I wonder if it is an investment I should make?

Seminars on becoming a flight attendant are usually not worth the high price tag, ( which ranges from $45.00-300.00!) When I wrote" The Essential Guide To Becoming A Flight Attendant", one of the main priorities was to make it affordable for everyone. We believe we offer much more than any seminar at a much lower cost. As a matter of fact, many seminar facilitators actually teach directly from my guide! But leasing out hotel banquet rooms, etc.. adds a lot of overhead to their production. The material on becoming a flight attendant is easy to understand and learn on your own, by simply reading my guide.

Do you have to be really attractive and thin to be a flight attendant?

No! Thankfully, airlines realized many years ago that flight attendants are real people, so US airlines did away with the restrictive weight requirements and other appearance standards. Although flight attendants remain the front line representatives of the airline and must still project a groomed and polished appearance, you do not need to be extremely attractive or thin to get the job. Personality and a favorable character is much more important.

Will I have to relocate?

At most airlines, relocation is a condition of employment. This does not mean that you will have to sell your home and all of your belongings to become a flight attendant! It will however require some flexibility on your part during the first several months of your flying career. New hire flight attendants will be assigned a base after graduating from training. You will be expected to report for duty from that base, but may live wherever you choose. Over 29% of flight attendants commute to their base city. Also, you will normally be eligible for transfer from your initially assigned base to the base of your choice within the first three to nine months of your employment.

How do I know if my past work history is good enough to get a flight attendant job?

Airlines try to look for the applicant who has some sort of customer service work in their background. Airlines truly welcome all types of past work experience. Airlines simply want someone who can relate favorably to passengers and colleagues, offer outstanding service and comfort to passengers and who has a positive, outgoing personality.

The airline that I applied to requires a ten year work history, I can't remember the exact dates and employers for ten years, where can I get help?

All airlines will require a ten year background check for past employment. You can link here to contact the social security administration who can provide you with a complete listing of dates and employers in your history.

I am not a US citizen but want to be a flight attendant for a US based airline, am I eligible?

All applicants must have in place the legal authorization ( green card, work visa) to work within the US and to make multiple entries and exits to and from the US before applying to a US airline. Click here to learn more about obtaining a visa or work permit.

I just ordered your guide because I have already interviewed for a flight attendant position and have not been selected, what am I doing wrong?

There are so many factors at work in an airline interview, all of which you will learn in my book. Chances are you are just answering questions the wrong way, utilizing a specific body action that recruiters instantly look for or missing a key piece of wardrobe. There are a myriad of points that you must be aware of. Remember, it is a highly competitive process and due to the incredible volume of applicants, airlines can be selective. My guide will give you the information that will absolutely make you shine!

I have insurance at my current employer, do airlines offer insurance plans?

Yes! Airlines offer full medical and dental insurance to cover the employee and spouses/life partners/children. Plus, many offer credit unions that provide in house checking, savings and loans. Also offered are maternity benefits, family leaves, educational leaves, inter company career advancement, retirement benefits, 401K plans and profit sharing.

Do you have to be speak another language to be hired as a flight attendant?

No. Airlines give each applicant the same consideration. Of course major airlines do need and actively seek applicants who speak a second or third language due the large international operations those airlines maintain but it is not a requirement for employment at most US airlines.

What is the schedule of a flight attendant like?

Normally flight attendants work about 12-15 days a month. You will normally work a three day sequence, immediately followed by three or more days off. Many flight attendants utilize all of the time off by beginning second businesses, taking advantage of the incredible travel benefits or spending time with their families, making it truly the most flexible job in the world.

Are flight attendants ever allowed to work overtime?

Yes. Flight attendants are able to trade flying schedules, drop flying or pick up flying. This will allow you to customize your schedule to suit you. Many flight attendants pick up extra flying in order to earn additional income.

Does the airline pay for the hotel accommodations on layovers?

Yes. The airline pays for a hotel room for each crewmember as well as arranging company paid transportation to and from the hotel. Each trip is a like a mini vacation!

What kind of salary do flight attendants make?

Flight Attendant income varies from airline to airline. The pay ranges from about $13.00-$40.00 per flight hour or more. Most airlines have in place a monthly guarantee which ranges between 65-80 flight hours. The Flight Attendant is paid the guarantee whether he/she actually works those hours or not. Most new hire flight attendants will earn between $16,000-23,000 and may eventually earn up to $75,000 per year. Actual pay per hour is dependent upon years of service and any special qualifications the Flight Attendant may have on board the aircraft. Flight Attendants also receive a special per diem for each hour spent away from home. This per diem is in place to cover meals and other expenses. With each year of service comes an increase in salary.

I have a tattoo, will this disqualify me?

It is not uncommon to have a tattoo and airlines recognize that. You may hear questions in your interview about tattoos you may have and how visible they are. Airlines do not disqualify an applicant if the tattoo cannot be seen while in uniform. In other words, tattoos on areas of the face, neck or hands would be a mark against you, whereas tattoos that are easily hidden with clothing would be acceptable.

What is your best advice for an airline interview?

My best advice is to remember the 4 P's of airline interviewing:

Professional, in both dress and demeanor, look and act like a business professional.

Poised: Eye contact, posture, the way you carry yourself, facial expression, (think pleasant!) are all observed.

Personable: Interact with everyone that you meet and treat them as if they are the most important person in the room. Genuine outgoing personalities are what they look for.

Positive! Speak well of your former employers, think customer service and safety when answering questions.

Do you answer the email from your site?

Yes! Each email is given the personal attention it deserves! There is a lot to learn about applying and the career, and we want to give our readers and visitors the correct information! During times of high volume, it may take us a little longer to get back to you, but we respond to every email. If you desire a higher level of consulting about your career, you can purchase our first class service, we include all of our products, plus unlimited one on one time with Kiki Ward.

Interview Overview DOWNLOAD FAQ'S

How do I download the overview?

Once you have completed the purchase process, an interview download will appear to the right of your screen in red. Simply click on the link to open the overview.

I have downloaded the overview but cannot locate it on my computer.

Watch carefully when you begin the process of the download. Your computer will download it to a program of your choice, or default to a program like Microsoft Word, Word Perfect, etc..

How large are the files?

The files are very manageable and download very quickly.

How many times can I download it?

You may download the overview up to three times after purchase and you have 48 hours from time of purchase to download the overview.

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Email us immediately, and will email the overview(s) you ordered directly to your inbox.

IS THIS THE CAREER FOR YOU?

Flight Attendant Assessment/Career Test FREE with purchase, over 50 airline qualifying and interview questions, PLUS the required 24 hour clock, FREE WITH PURCHASE! This is the same test airlines use to pre-qualify applicants!